Used Honda Accord review: 1993-1997

Its lines were clean, its surfaces smooth, only its tail was clearly derivative, being a copy of the E36 3-Series BMW.  Up against the likes of the Toyota Camry, Mazda 626, Mitsubishi Galant, Nissan Bluebird and Hyundai Sonata, the Accord was pleasantly different.

MODEL WATCH

It was the technology learned from Honda's involvement in Grand Prix racing that began to filter through to the production models in the early 1990s. The most obvious being the VTEC engine with variable valve timing and lift, which changed engine design in a fundamental way.

The idea was brilliant. By varying the time the valves opened and closed, and altering the valve lift, the engine could be tuned to deliver good torque and fuel consumption as well as plenty of power.

Honda made the modest claim that the VTEC engine developed less than 5 per cent more power than the equivalent engine without variable valve timing, but it also produced up to 8 per cent better fuel consumption and boasted better mid-range torque. The VTEC engine was one of two 2.2-litre four cylinder engines Honda offered in the Accord.

Apart from the VTEC variable valve timing, it had a single overhead camshaft, four valves per cylinder and fuel injection, which combined to belt out 107 kW at 5000 revs and 198Nm at 4500 revs. The standard engine was a carry over from the previous model. Its peaks were 103kW at 5600 revs and 192Nm at 4500 revs.

Both engines were smooth, thanks largely to a balance shaft.  Each could be linked to either manual or automatic transmissions.  Four-wheel discs did an admirable job of slowing the Accord, while standard power steering made light of the wheel work.

Three models made up the range. It started with the EXi sedan which had the base engine along with airconditioning, central locking, power windows, cloth trim and four-speaker radio/cassette sound. Cruise control was added in 1996. The remaining models had the VTEC engine. The VTi sedan and wagon added alloys, a sunroof, power driver's seat and a couple of extra speakers. The VTi-S sedan also had leather trim, anti-skid brakes and a driver's airbag.

IN THE SHOP

Technology needs to be serviced and that goes particularly for Hondas. It's crucial that the engine oil is changed regularly to prevent sludge from building up, and equally important that the cam timing belt be changed every 100,000 km.

Same goes for the gearboxes. The manual was not a worry, but the auto needs regular servicing and it's important to use Honda-specified transmission oil. The Accord's chassis gives little trouble, but check for ticking noises that might indicate a problem with a CV joint.

CRUNCH TIME

Agile handling along with four-wheel disc brakes (anti-skid on VTi-S and all models from 1995) gives the driver a good chance of avoiding a crash. The Accord's stiff body and a driver's airbag provide quite good protection in a crunch.

RATING

15/20 Well-engineered, well-built, prestige, medium-size car that offers good value as a used buy for the long haul.  The Accord stands out well against its rivals.